Online Safety
The internet offers wonderful opportunities for children to learn, explore, communicate and have fun. At Scoil Aodán Naofa, we recognise the importance of helping children develop the skills to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully.
Online safety is a shared responsibility between school and home. We have gathered some useful advice and resources to help parents support their children as they navigate the online world.
Helping Your Child Stay Safe Online
Keeping children safe online doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits can make a big difference.
Keep Talking
Take an interest in what your child enjoys online. Encourage them to tell you if something makes them uncomfortable, worried or upset.
Set Boundaries
Agree on sensible rules around screen time, suitable websites, online games and device use. Review these as your child grows.
Protect Privacy
Help your child understand why personal information, passwords, photographs and location details should be protected.
Encourage Kindness
Remind children that the same standards of kindness and respect apply online as they do in the classroom and playground.
Useful Resources for Parents
The following websites provide reliable, practical advice to help families make informed decisions about children’s online activities.
Webwise – Parents Hub
An excellent Irish resource offering advice on screen time, social media, cyberbullying, online games, privacy and much more.
Visit WebwiseWebwise – Parent Guides
Download helpful guides, including online safety advice, family agreements and information about keeping children safe on the internet.
View Parent GuidesChildnet
Information and practical activities to help parents talk to children about staying safe, happy and respectful online.
Visit ChildnetInternet Matters
Step-by-step advice on parental controls, privacy settings, online gaming and managing children’s digital lives.
Visit Internet MattersStarting the Conversation
One of the most important things parents can do is keep the lines of communication open. Children should know that they can always ask for help if something happens online that worries or upsets them.
Webwise’s Talk, Listen, Learn campaign provides helpful conversation starters for families. It’s a lovely way to begin talking about online safety without making it feel like a lecture.
Talk, Listen, LearnOnline Safety at Scoil Aodán Naofa
At Scoil Aodán Naofa, we encourage children to use technology positively and responsibly. Online safety forms an important part of helping our pupils become confident, respectful and responsible digital citizens.
Our school’s Acceptable Use Policy outlines our expectations for the safe and responsible use of digital technologies in school.
View Our Acceptable Use PolicyWhat If Something Goes Wrong?
If your child experiences something upsetting online, encourage them to talk to a trusted adult. Listen calmly, reassure them and help them decide what to do next.
Depending on the situation, it may be appropriate to save evidence, block or report an account, or seek additional support.
Remember: Children are more likely to ask for help when they know they can speak openly without fear of getting into trouble.
The following services offer further information and support.